Reviews & Ratings

Reviews

“Peaceful, Beautiful, Idyllic Cottage - A perfect stay”

Barn Owl cottage was nothing short of a total pleasure to stay in. It really did feel like a proper holiday with a cosy fire, a beautifully equipped house, a wonderful welcome (cake, tea/coffee/milk and bread on arrival) and the most immaculate standard of housekeeping an cleanliness. I must confess, I am always a bit nervous about cleanliness and my expectations were greatly exceeded by the standard of everything at this beautiful cottage. The owners couldn't have been more kind and helpful, ...

Barn Owl cottage was nothing short of a total pleasure to stay in. It really did feel like a proper holiday with a cosy fire, a beautifully equipped house, a wonderful welcome (cake, tea/coffee/milk and bread on arrival) and the most immaculate standard of housekeeping an cleanliness. I must confess, I am always a bit nervous about cleanliness and my expectations were greatly exceeded by the standard of everything at this beautiful cottage. The owners couldn't have been more kind and helpful, always available should you need advice and pointers about the house or lovely local areas but never intrusive. We thoroughly enjoyed staying at this beautiful cottage, cooking meals at night, turning the fire on and playing the games that are there for guests to use. Beds were so comfortable and the bathrooms were warm and toasty with heated floors, you really couldn't fault any part of the stay. My only real regret was that we couldn't stay longer! We had a wonderful stay and genuinely cannot recommend it enough. If peace, tranquillity and a beautifully furnished and maintained cottage is what you are looking for, then Barn Owl is the one for you, 100%.

“Barn Owl cottage was nothing short of a total pleasure to stay in.”

It really did feel like a proper holiday with a cosy fire, a beautifully equipped house, a wonderful welcome (cake, tea/coffee/milk and bread on arrival) and the most immaculate standard of housekeeping an cleanliness. I must confess, I am always a bit nervous about cleanliness and my expectations were greatly exceeded by the standard of everything at this beautiful cottage. The owners couldn't have been more kind and helpful, always available should you need advice and pointers about the house or lovely local areas but never intrusive. We thoroughly enjoyed staying at this beautiful cottage, cooking meals at night, turning the fire on and playing the games that are there for guests to use. Beds were so comfortable and the bathrooms were warm and toasty with heated floors, you really couldn't fault any part of the stay. My only real regret was that we couldn't stay longer! We had a wonderful stay and genuinely cannot recommend it enough. If peace, tranquillity and a beautifully furnished and maintained cottage is what you are looking for, then Barn Owl is the one for you, 100%.

- Mrs Ghayour, November 2018

“Home from Home”

We had a great week staying in this luxurious cottage. It’s a farm renovation done to the highest standard. The owners live next door in the other part of the renovation. Every detail has been considered. Comfortable furniture, comfortable beds with quality linen and the best towels. There is a full kitchen complete with dishwasher and washing machine. There is a wood burner but only managed to use it a couple of times as we were fortunate to have mild weather. The underfloor heating keeps the cottage cosy. On arrival there was milk, bread, tea, coffee and a cake - much needed after a long journey. We enjoyed York, the North Yorkshire Moors and Scarborough and Whitby. No visit would be complete without a steam train trip on the NYM Railway - we were lucky to visit during a steam gala. Would love to return one day.

“An absolutely beautiful cottage with everything you could possibly need.”

Ken & Annie live next door and are there if you need help or information on the local area but apart from that they leave you alone to enjoy your holiday.
Would definitely recommend and would return if we decide to visit the area again
Fiona George & kyle

- Mrs Mcgeechan, October 2018

“We had a fantastic week at Barn Owl Cottage.”

When we arrived we were a little concerned that it was close to a road but in reality we hardly noticed and once the sun went down the road became very quiet and you wouldn’t know it was there.
The owners met us when we arrived and gave us a quick tour with all the necessary information and then left us to our holiday. The cottage had tea, coffee and cake and biscuits along with milk and some bread and butter to get us started. They also provided logs for the wood burner in the lounge and unlike some places we have stayed they had extra logs, at no cost, should we need them. The cottage was very clean and tidy and had everything we needed, including a well stocked kitchen with all the pans and utensils we needed.
The location is very rural but is close enough to centres such as Helmsley to allow for a quick top up shop when running low. Overall we never had to travel for more than 30 mins to get to where we wanted to go which included York, Malton and Pickering. A great base to see the wonderful North Yorkshire attractions.
Definitely on the recommended list.

- Mr Keavey, October 2018

“It was a lovely cottage in a lovely area.”

Ideally located to visit all the local area and further afield. We had a great week out and about. However the sofa was impossible to sit comfortably on with it sagging in the middle. The beds were far too firm to get a good night's sleep which was not helped by the road noise. The soundproofing must be non existent. You hear every vehicle pass at all hours so it was not the peaceful country retreat we were expecting. Plus the owners dog in the adjacent property liked to be heard.Sadly we will not be returning to this property for those very reasons.

- Mr Ellis, September 2018

The owner thanks you for your feedback. Beds and soft furnishings are such a personal preference and when furnishing a holiday property they have to choose for the majority of guests, and we fully appreciate it is not possible to cater for all individual needs.
Any issues you may have had, the owner was on hand to address immediately, had they been aware of it. The owners pride themselves on endeavouring to maintain high standards at the property and usually obtain full marks in this area from their guests.
The windows are double glazed and fully insulated to guidelines and should block out the majority of noise as you would expect.
With reference to the dog barking the owner has advised that if it was their dog you heard he only barks when anyone visits the property eg the postman . However Sam is certainly not what you would call a barky dog, and most of the dog loving visitors to the cottage enjoy seeing
Sam, who is a very well behaved Fox Red Labrador . Brandsby, as you know is a countryside location so it is not uncommon to hear country/farming sounds, including the Tawny Owls at night .
We do hope this did not detract from you week at Barn Owl Cottage overall.
Sykes owner relations

“We booked this cottage at relatively short notice due to a holiday being cancelled.”

It was a lovely cottage in a beautiful part of the country. The cottage was well fitted with quality furnishings and great showers. It was warm and the wood burner was a teal treat.

- Mr Salter, September 2018

“A wonderful cottage with everything provided to a very high standard by the lovely owners.”

There is a tranquil feeling to Barn Owl cottage, a very relaxing atmosphere. You do hear road noise at times from passing vehicles but it is a country 'B' road, not a busy main road and does not detract from the superb location of Barn Owl Cottage. We would not hesitate to return or recommend.
Mr & Mrs Yeo

- Mrs Yeo, September 2018

“The cottage was amazing, clean and very well looked after.”

Nothing was to much for Anne and ken.

- Mr Hamilton, August 2018

“Cosy Cottage - Home from Home”

We had a wonderful week in Barn Owl Cottage. The owners keep the cottage to a high standard and the lovely welcome pack (milk, bread, butter and cake) was fab together with the little extras of dishwasher tablets, washing tablets etc.
The road didn’t pose any problems for us and was very quiet at night. Stillington was only 2 miles away with a couple of lovely pubs. We were perfectly based so we could go off and explore Yorkshire.
The only downside was it was too hot to have the wood burner alight! We will be back. Thank you Annie and Ken

“Fabulous cottage, beautifully furnished and very clean.”

“Have done a number of cottage holidays.”

This was easily the best cottage that we have found. It was comfortable, clean, and well equipped. The owners were friendly and welcoming without being intrusive. The welcome pack was helpful - no need to go out to look for milk etc when we arrived. There was plenty of information about things to do in the area. The cottage itself is in a beautiful setting, with plenty of places to walk in the surrounding countryside. We enjoyed seeing the wildlife - birds, rabbits, hares and even a couple of deer wandering out of the copse accross the fields. The cottage is beside a road which would mean that those with small children would need to be careful that they do not wander. However there is a patio which is closed in and the traffic on the road did not bother us in the slightest. Many good places to eat within a few miles. Would happily return there again.

- Rev Job, June 2018

“The barn owl cottage was fantastic we could not fault a thing absolutely perfect ideal area to see York Whitby and surrounding areas.”

Annie and Ken the owners where fantastic if needed couldn't help enough many thanks

- Mr Heenan, June 2018

“Lovely cottage.”

Nice friendly and helpful owners.

- Mrs Hufton, April 2018

“We have just returned from a 5 night break staying at Barn Owl Cottage in Brandsby, North Yorkshire.”

From the moment we stepped through the entrance, we were not disappointed. The attention to detail was clear to see, the kitchen was well equipped with welcome groceries and all the essentials provided i.e. dishwasher and washing tablets, cleaning products etc. The beds were so comfortable with matching bed linen, and the towels soft and fluffy. As the weather turned and the mini ‘beast from the east’ struck, we were grateful for the cosy under floor heating and the log burner with a good supply of logs.
We would thoroughly recommend staying at this property and anticipate returning in better weather!
Thank you

- Mrs Hart, March 2018

“Beautiful, cosy and well equipped cottage.”

Welcoming and friendly owners. Great location to access lots of the local attractions.

- Mrs Cook, March 2018

“What can I say, it's the second time we have visited Barn Owl Cottage, and it never fails to disappoint.”

Always a lovely welcome when you arrive, the lights are on, it's warm, music is playing, there is always lovely bread and cake waiting!
Annie and Ken know how to prepare a lovely cottage and always are on hand if there are any questions or issues.
The cottage has lovely views over hills and fields, and the log burner makes it so homely, all the furnishings and fittings are very well appointed so has a luxurious feel.
Plenty of local good pubs, lots of walking, it's surrounded by bridleways and footpaths, close to York, close to the Moors and close to many National Trust visiting places, the cottage is in an excellent location.
Honestly, one of the best cottages we've stayed at, already planning our next trip there!

- Mr Meech, March 2018

“Location great a home from home”

- Dr Cox, February 2018

“We have stayed at a fair few cottages but Barn Owl Cottage is far the best we have had.”

Annie & Ken are the perfect holiday home owners, they are there if you need them but leave you alone to enjoy your holiday. The cottage upon arrival was extremely clean and the welcome cake, bread,butter and milk are most welcome after a long drive. We had such a lovely week that we have decided to re book soon as we ran out of time as there is so much to see and do. 1 week is nowhere near enough time. We were sorry to leave. Thank you Annie & Ken for a wonderful holiday.

- Mrs Ivimy, September 2017

“Barn Owl Cottage has been converted in recent years from a former farm outbuilding and has been thoughtfully designed and finished, with considerable attention to detail.”

This has resulted in an attractive and very well appointed cottage for up to 4 people. Situated in an attractive rural setting, reasonably convenient for local amenities and a host of interesting places to visit, Barn Owl Cottage provides a very relaxed atmosphere with a reasonably secluded patio area accessible directly from the living area and from both bedrooms. There is some passing traffic, but we did not find this to be an annoyance. The owners, who live adjacent, are very approachable and are there if you require their assistance, but otherwise leave you in peace to enjoy your holiday. Certainly a cottage that we would consider returning to.

- Mr Allen, August 2017

“We had a fantastic week.”

Cottage brilliant. Just like home from home. Comfortable beds and great showers. Welcome pack was very much appreciated. Owners very welcoming and helpful. Enjoyed visiting nearby market towns and York within easy reach also.

- Ms Clark, July 2017

“The cottage is situated on the edge of the Howardian hills, which is a beautiful area to go to.”

The picture of the outside gives the impression the cottage is overlooking the fields. This is true, but there is a road in between which surprised us a bit. That said, it was not a busy road and the cottage is very well equipped (wonderful showers!) and all fittings are of a very high standard. The kitchen is exceptionally well kitted out for making your own meals. Probably one of the very best we have stayed in. There was a welcome pack of milk, bread, spreadable butter and a very good Victoria sponge cake, which was a lovely touch, and the owners are friendly people who can be called on if needed but are not 'in your face'. We have visited Yorkshire for many years and still find new things to do and see, so it is an area you won't be disappointed with any time soon. The cottage is in a lovely place for walks, has the seaside nearby, and many historic buildings and York (our favourite city anywhere) are on the doorstep. There are many great places to go to for a good meal too. There is very little not to like about this place.

- Mrs Holland, June 2017

“Barn Owl Cottage is a lovely place full of character and surrounded by tranquil Yorkshire countryside.”

We received a very nice welcome with a hand written card, bread, milk and cake!

- Mrs Brady, April 2017

“Relaxing 2nd visit”

Brandsby middle of beautiful countryside on edge of Howardian hills. Had a lovely relaxing time with family. Bungalow very well facilitated with double roomy on suite and twin room with shower next door along passageway. Lovely warm kitchen come sitting room with wood burner fire (my favourite). Lovely personal touches like welcoming cake, milk tea and coffee and even loaf of bread. Nice relaxing time, shame to finish holiday. Will definitely return.

“Luxury, home from home in every way!”

We need ground floor accommodation for my wife, this cottage provided that plus so much more.
Beautifully converted barn with so many interesting features.
Perfect for the sun in the morning, we were able to enjoy coffee on the terrace.
Very comfortable, we will be back

“It has all been said before”

There is nothing we can add to the previous guests comments. Accomodation was first class - warm, cosy and comfortable. We and our friends would certainly be happy to return especially as there is still so much more for us to see and do.

“Amazing ,top class”

What an Absolutely amazing place we were very impressed everything was perfect from the welcome to the thoughtfulness of the welcome pack and info provided. a very clean and spotless property,we really enjoyed our stay here so luxurious and relaxing we would recommend to anyone the power showers and Underfloor heating and comfy beds were lovely. Excellent distance from everywhere you could want to visit,York is an excellent city we used the park and ride, we visited Piglets and DIggerland and creepy crawlies adventure park, all enjoyed very much by our son and ate out at various different pubs etc we especially enjoyed the White bear inn at Stillington, we visited Stillington park and Rowntree park in york,

“Beautiful and luxurious cottage in nice setting”

We absolutely loved our stay at Barn Owl cottage and would definitely come again. The owners are very welcoming and friendly. The cottage has everything one could want for and more and is very clean.
A perfect spot to visit the Yorkshire Moors or Dales.

“A Welcome Retreat”

Barn Owl Cottage was an ideal base for our Yorkshire holiday. The cottage is wonderfully inviting, warm and cosy, equipped with everything you could need. The beds are really comfortable and the walk-in shower amazing! Wi-fi access enabled us to stay in contact with our family. Sadly it was not cold enough for us to light the wood burner. Maybe next time!
We went from the cottage to York, using the Park and RIde; to Whitby for seaside and fish and chips; to Castle Howard; across the moor to Helmsley and Rievaulx Abbey as well as dining at excellent local inns.
The owners were very helpful and the Welcome Pack provided was greatly appreciated. We are looking forward to a return visit.

“Better than brilliant”

We have stayed in many places over time - but this was by far the best. It had all you could want and then some.
Easy to find, magic views from kitchen window, central for just about everything north of the city of York.
I would recommend this to anyone and everyone.

“A Home away from Home”

We arrived at this cottage to discover it was everything that was advertised. We were welcomed by the friendly owners. No details were left untouched. The kitchen was fully stocked with everything that you would need. The cottage was clean with a nice modern decor from bedding and luxurious walk in showers. The location was ideally situated close to all amenities and major routes to other areas in North Yorkshire. Just a short drive to York and the train station to whisk you away to other destinations. It was truly a home away from home and will recommend this location to friends and families!

The property

This divine, stone-built barn conversion sits in an idyllic location on the fringes of the Howardian Hills AONB, just outside of the attractive village of Brandsby.

With a heart-warming, homely interior and the fascinating city of York just over 10 miles away, Barn Owl Cottage offers welcoming accommodation for couples, friends or family seeking to make the most of all that this area can offer.

Set all on the ground floor, this stunning property benefits from simply fabulous open-plan living, with a modern take on a traditional country-cottage layout.

The sloping ceiling gives off a real traditional feel, whilst the cosy seating and stunning woodburning stove offer a soothing spot to kick back and watch your favourite films on the TV, views across the nearby rolling countryside top it all off.

The two bedrooms here, a king-size and a twin, are finished in an immaculate, hotel-like standard, the master bedroom comes with the added luxury of a sumptuous en-suite shower room.

Luxuriate in your heavenly rural setting by taking a seat on the patio with a refreshing drink of choice, or a good book.

You simply cannot get bored of this location, with something to suit every taste within easy reach – you nature lovers can venture into the Howardian Hills by foot or bicycle and admire the surrounding scenery.

For breath-taking architecture, charming shops and cafés and plenty to keep you occupied, take the short trip to York for an unforgettable day trip.

You foodies are also spoilt for choice in this part of Yorkshire, it is particularly known for its excellent food scene.

Each nearby market town is brimming with high-quality gastropubs, restaurants and tea rooms and there are also a wide range of fabulous farm shops and local food producers to make the most of.

A tastefully finished barn conversion in an astounding countryside location.

Accommodation

All ground floor. Two bedrooms: 1 x king-size double with en-suite shower, basin and WC, 1 x twin. Shower room with walk-in shower, basin and WC. Open plan living area with kitchen, dining area and sitting area with woodburner.

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About the location

BRANDSBY

York 12 miles; Helmsley 10 miles; Harrogate 16 miles.

The small, peaceful village of Brandsby lies in the Vale of York, surrounded by the beautiful, rolling countryside of the Howardian Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Close by is Crayke with an award winning gastro pub, whilst nearby Stillington provides a local shop, a Post Office, and three dining pubs, and the market town of Easingwold offers all the usual amenities, including a traditional Friday market. Brandsby is handily placed for touring, with the famous City of York only 12 miles away, whilst the North York Moors and East Coast, seaside towns of Scarborough, Bridlington and Whitby are all within an hour's drive. The surrounding area is steeped in history, with an abundance of abbeys, stately homes and gardens, such as Castle Howard, Byland Abbey and Helmsley Castle, waiting to be explored. Also close by are miniature and full size steam railways, together with Flamingo Land, Light Water Valley, The Forbidden Corner, Sea World and The Deep, great for family days out. There are excellent eating places nearby, numerous market towns and pretty villages to explore, and great walking opportunities; an excellent destination for a varied year-round break.